Looking for a Round Table for the Library

I want to do something like this in the front parlor/library. Not the style, but the idea of a table with four chairs in front of the bookshelves.

We’re planning on storing board games and some toys in the closed storage of the built-ins, and because one needs an aesthetically pleasing place in which to play Hi Ho! Cherry-O and build LEGOs, I’ve been on the hunt for some furniture. I’ve wanted a round table from the beginning, to echo the round wall with windows, so that’s what I’m focusing on.

I’d like four chairs around it (and we can pull up either a stool, occasional chair, or dining chair if we need a fifth for our soon-to-be family of five), but I don’t want the set-up to look like a randomly placed dining table. I think upholstered chairs would look and feel best, and I’m not so worried about the combination of fabric seats and little kids since we won’t be eating there.

Of course I like the two most expensive chairs of the bunch (#2 and #3), and both would work with the color palette I’m going for. So perfect! So not in the budget! I’m going to concentrate on getting the table first — one that I know will work with a variety of seating options — and then new chairs can always come later. Which would you pick though, if price didn’t matter? One of the ones above, or do you have a different favorite?

Katie

April 23, 2014 at 6:47 pm

I love that table! I originally wanted to make my own dining room table with hairpin leg but sadly the style doesn’t fit the style of my new place at all! SUCH a bummer. Maybe I can do something like this as an accent table in the living room though.

you know, i LOVE the look of the stockholm chair, but in real life, it falls short. the wood part looks cheap (and will look even more so next to your beautiful natural wood!) and is unfortunately so uncomfortable. not everyone feels this way, but its definitely one to sit in for a while at Ikea before buying!

As far as table goes. I’d pick your #1 with the pedestal. I think it would be a lot easier to put your chair wherever you wanted it without a bunch of legs from the table deciding where you can and cannot comfortably sit.

I didn’t realize you had the Ikea Docksta… How do you like it? Is it sturdy? Would you recommend it?

I really want a Saarinen Tulip Table, but can’t really justify spending the money on it. It’s use would be similar to what you’re looking for, used in a library/family type area for playing games, etc. I’ve been to Ikea a few times and checked out the Docksta and I can’t tell if people are just a little rough on the floor model or it is not the sturdiest. Would love to know how it’s working out for you!

I think that Pottery Barn table would fit better in your ‘library’ space. And I think I’m liking chair #5. The darker wood would go with that table and the blue would give the room a great, bright color to work with.

Kendall

April 23, 2014 at 1:23 pm

The Deeda is beautiful! So pricey though. I will say that the stockholm chair was not very comfortable (at least to my husband and myself) when I gave it a try at our local IKEA. Also, the trendig chair looks similar, but unfortunately has some assembly issues. Alison did a write up of her experience here: http://www.deucecitieshenhouse.com/2014/03/cool-but-not-cool-chair.html

Stacie Johns

April 23, 2014 at 2:38 pm

I totally love the Saddle Dining Chairs from West Elm, and I have been eyeing them for a while now. I think they’d look great with a pedestal table because it’s just the right mix of upholstery and wood without being too large. I just love the chairs, what can I say? :)

I used to have a similar English drop leaf table in my kitchen that I purchased from Barley Twist Antiques in Oak Park. They are now located in Hinsdale, and may be worth giving a call. The price often depends on the age: The reproductions from the 1930’s are a lot cheaper than the originals from the 19th century. Barley Twist used to carry both eras and they still may. I couldn’t tell the difference! I love the look of the one you posted.

I’d probably be better off with a reproduction anyway, or at least something that isn’t too fine. I want the kids to be able to play with their toys on the table without being worried the whole time about dings and scratches!

Abby

April 23, 2014 at 6:19 pm

Forgive me if you’ve already mentioned this. But what happened to your old dining chairs? Could you use those? Maybe even with the docksta as a sort of placeholder? I’m kind of a fan of placeholders until I find the perfect piece. Keeps me from making rash decisions cause I need something right now!

Jess

April 23, 2014 at 6:49 pm

First off, I LOVE your choice of putting a table and chairs in front of the built ins… Libraries can look so static and this will add instant action; a seating spot where fun stuff happens! #2 is the obvious choice because it’s the only one in the bunch that has a “parlor” feel. But $1,400 times four?? I’m sure you can find something with similar lines and the same trad/mod feel without spending $6,000, right?

megan

April 23, 2014 at 9:36 pm

Just butting in here – reupholstering would probably be pricey, but you could have tailored slipcovers made for the chairs if you like the lines. I just did this with a chair in my living room and the seamstress put velcro on the bottom of the chair so there’s no skirt, even a short one, on the chair and it essentially looks like I upholstered it. I was amazing at how well it turned out. If you find fabric at a discount place you could make it affordable!

Love this idea! Similar to what someone else mentioned, a round table in the middle of the room (under the gas light) was very common in Victorian houses (it was the only spot with a bright enough light to read by). I really like the idea of upholstered chairs (#2 is really great) that are nice and comfy (also great for moving around when you have guests over). Have you seen this one at OneKingsLane (it seems like they are always selling these in different colors)? Unfortunately still kind of pricy.

I am thinking of doing the same thing in my dining room. We have the Saarinen table & black Eames chairs, I would love this MGBW odette sofettein a pale blue or bright green velvet, but it’s so expensive!!!http://www.mgbwhome.com/ODETTE-SOFETTE-P9184.aspx

Elizabeth

April 24, 2014 at 7:20 pm

Have you thought about one of those oak Empire-style pawfoot pedestal tables? They run around $200 in this neck of the woods (PA). I love mine: it’s super sturdy, and it can take a beating because the finish is old but it looks like “patina” not “shabby”. Might be too much oak for your room, but you could always paint the base dark (or even the whole thing).

With an inexpensive table, you could spring for more modern chairs to lighten up the look.

trixxie

April 24, 2014 at 7:42 pm

Okay as long as money is no object, I think #3 would be absolutely stunning with all that wood! Also, I prefer the pedestal table style. Personally, I would try to save money on the table…maybe even paint a vintage table so that I could spend a little more on chairs. I was trying to figure out if it was the brass or that shade of green that was drawing me in more, but I realized it really is the combination of the two. A more budget friendly solution might be to find a set of brass chairs with good lines on CL or in a vintage shop and have them reupholstered.

nancy50

Marcee ... ILLINOIS

April 27, 2014 at 1:59 pm

Ohwow. Love that (dark) table. Might be a bit tricky to fit properly. Re chairs: if I had the moola, (or desperate need) for sure those dark turquoise blue chairs …. entire set of 4, would be m-i-n-e! Gorgeous. Looks as if these chairs are same shade as sofa. Just beautiful. You know how to pick great stuff Nicole! Ha.

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